Wanderers win in Bathurst

Western Sydney Wanderers 2-1 Newcastle Jets

By Jonathon Hagger 9/2/24

Above: Western Sydney are back on the winners list. Photo : Wander Women

With six wins and two draws apiece the Western Sydney Wanderers faced off against the Newcastle Jets at Carrington Park in rural New South Wales. Two very talented, young and in red hot form teams plined up against each other for a Friday night football match that turned out to be a fantastic watch. 

With eight goals each so far this season, Sophie Harding for the Wanderers and Sarina Bolden for the Jets, were players to watch out for but it turned out to be the young guns who really impressed. 

The match started at a fast pace with each team sending the ball quickly from one end of the pitch to the other. The Jets strategy of applying a strong press disrupted the Wanderers passing accuracy early on resulting in a lack of rhythm. 

The eighth minute of the first half yielded the first heart stopping moment as the Jets snuck in behind the Wanderers defenders forcing the goalkeeper, Collins, to come a long way out from her goal and after not taking a clean save the first time, she had to employ all her reflexes to save the second attempt. Not long after the speed of the  Jets created an opportunity for Copus-Brown, who took a shot from the right hand side of the goal, only for the ball to agonisingly sail out for a goal kick. 

The pressure applied by the Jets was converted into a goal in the 14th minute as Bolden laid off a beautiful pass to the feet of Copus-Brown. A clean shot was  launched from just outside the goal area, beating a fully outstretched Wanderers  keeper whose effort was not enough to stop the goal. The Jets went ahead 1-0.

Sophie Harding took the initiative for the Wanderers in the 29th minute. Having beaten her defender, Harding took a shot at the goal but the ball sprayed wide. Might this be a turning of momentum in the Wanderers favour? It certainly appeared that way as the Jets players began to assert themselves much more. 

A long goal kick headed on through the midfield by Caspers straight down the middle of the pitch was just the opening that the Wanderers needed. Once again, in the 43rd minute Sophie Harding found herself running at full pace towards the Jets goal with three defenders chasing her. A well placed chipped ball beat the goalkeeper and levelled the match. Wanderers 1 – 1 Jets. 

The second half started off the same way the first half finished – both teams playing fast football. It was the Wanderers who had the early ascendency, setting up camp in the Jets half but the Jets weren’t giving in. Both teams attempted to enforce some dominance on the match with repeated counter attack opportunities opening up however both goalkeepers were up to the task. 

The Jets emphasis on applying a strong defensive full pitch press almost worked brilliantly in the 75th minute as the Jets midfield were pickpocketed giving Bolden a free shot on goal. It was thenWanderers GK, Collins, who was called upon to tidy up. 

Caceres, Wanderers wonder sub, drew a foul in the 77th minute just outside the Jets goal area. Harrison took the free kick that sliced through a lacklustre Jets defensive effort, with the first attempt being swatted away by Nino. The ball wasn’t cleared though and Wanderers defender Vicky Bruce coolly slotted the ball into the goal. Wanderers 2 – 1 Jets. 

The remainder of the match played out at the same frenetic pace. Each team moved the ball with great speed in both structured and unstructured attacks. The Wanderers closed out the match with two superb opportunities to score yet neither of which were converted. Chesari drove into the box and let a shot go which was very soon after followed by Harding perfectly placing the ball for Morris to score all but for the exceptional talent of Nino who saved a sure goal.

The match finished 2-1 with the Wanderers getting the win over the Jets. 

Final thoughts. Every person who attended the match got their money’s worth of entertaining football. The continual fast pace and end to end action made this match an absolute pleasure to watch. Two very good and competitive teams played out a high energy match that every football fan could savour. Well done to both teams. 

Performances to be proud of. Emma Dundas (Jets) was a real dynamo in the midfield. At only 16 years of age she plays with the maturity of someone who is 26. Holly Caspers (Wanderers) created lots of attacking opportunities.  

Western Sydney Wanderers: 3-4-1-2. Collins, Bruce, Harrison, Ferris, Matos, Price, Apostolakis, Rue, Younis, Harding, Caspers. 

Subs: Khamis, Keir (90’ + 1), Chessari (62’), Caceres (62’), Morris (88’).

Scorers: Harding (43’), Bruce (78’).  

Newcastle Jets  United: 3-4-3. Nino, Baumann, Prior, Karipidis, Davis, Dundas, Copus-Brown, Hoban, Barbieri, Bolden, Allan.

Subs: Dunbar, Wilson, Cicco (45’), Huynh (76’), Gooch. (76’).

Scorers: Copus-Brown (14’)

Referee: Isabella Mossin. 

Attendance: 3,873. 

Norfolk Weekend Wrap

By Darrell Allen 7/2/24

Ellie Smith scored for Norwich City in their 2-1 win at London Seward on Sunday. Credit – Norwich City Women FC

Fa Women’s National League Division One South East

Norwich City claimed a hard fought win with a 2-1 victory at London Seaward. Goals from Ellie Smith and Natasha Snelling saw the Canaries take victory with Katherine Long scoring for London Seaward. 

Eastern Region Premier Division

Wroxham lost their third league game in a row with a 2-1 defeat at Haringey Borough. Rebecca Russell scored for Wroxham but Goals from Saoirse Hourigan and Ronnell Humes saw the home side take victory. 

It was a good day for Dussindale & Hellesdon as they beat local rivals Mulbarton Belles 6-0 at The Nest on Sunday. Credit – Ben Cunningham 

Eastern Region Division One North

Dussindale & Hellesdon were one of the day’s headline writers with an emphatic 6-0 victory over MulbartonWanderers. Isabelle Moore scored a Hat-trick with Jessica Barnes, Rachel Bussey and Calista Tink scoring the other three goals. 

It was a bad day for Fakenham Town as they were beaten 3-0 at Wootton Blue Cross after Daisy Moore scored a Hat-Trick to send the Norfolk side home in defeat. 

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division One

Sprowston and Mulbarton Wanderers Development shared the points in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Blue Boar Lane. Rosie Milligan and Lois Wright scored for Sprowston with Megan Anderton and Alice Smith getting the goals for MulbartonWanderers. 

In the days only other Tier Seven game Long Stratton were 6-1 winners at Thorpe St Andrew thanks to a goals from Elsie Downer, Caitlin Skipper, Megan Vincent, Grace Wall and a brace from Elisha Bower. 

The games between Aylsham and Costessey Sports, Bungay and Caister and the fixture between University of East Anglia and Kings Lynn Soccer Club were all postponed. 

Samantha Walker (Light Green) battles for the ball for Mulbarton Wanderers in their 6-0 defeat at Dussindale & Hellesdon on Sunday. Credit – Ben Cunningham 

Norfolk Women and Girls League Division Two

Bure Valley continue to lead the way at the top of Tier Eight after a 6-0 win at Waveney, Emma Macmillan and Maisie Redgrave scored braces with Eva Heald and Romilly Mclaggan scoring the other two goals. 

Stalham are hot on Bure Valley’s heals and level on points in 2nd after a hard fought 2-1 win at improving Great Yarmouth Town. Kerri Eke and Abigail Gower scored for Stalham with Lacey Andrews scoring for Great Yarmouth Town. 

Mundford remain in title contention in third place and just three points back to the leading two. Livvi Hodges and Niamh Underhill scored their goals in a 2-0 win at Horsford Hurricanes. 

Shrublands produced the most impressive result of the day in Tier Eight with a 3-0 win at Beccles Town Development, Rachel Adams scored a Hat-Trick which sees Shrublands up to an impressive fourth. 

FC Viking Valkyries were 8-0 winners over Horsford Harriers thanks to four goals from Jessica Bennett and a goal each for Megan Bird, Carla Blundell, Leah Walthew and Maddie Smith. 

In the day’s final Tier Eight game Red Rose produced a totally dominant performance to beat Martham 10-0, Joanna Horner scored seven, Claire Weekes scored a brace and Charley Sinclair scored the other goal. 

Bure Valley continued their fine season with a 6-0 win at Waveney on Sunday. Credit – Shay Porter

Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division One

Dussindale & Hellesdon were 5-0 winners over Loddon United thanks to four goals from Helen Finn and a goal from Belinda Ballantyne. 

Mulbarton Wanderers were 2-0 winners at Taverham thanks to a goal each from Jo Hooper and Katie Ransome-Farmer. 

Rockland United were 11-0 winners at Waveney thanks to five goals from Daisy Eke, four goals from Rebecca Humphreys and a brace from Leanne Warnes. 

The game between Horsford and Left Field was postponed. 

Norfolk Women and Girls League 7’s Division Two

Aylsham and Madra shared the points in a 1-1 draw, Samantha Robbins scored for Aylsham with Jaime Sadler-Barker finding the net for Madra. 

FC Viking Valkyries were 7-0 winners over University of East Anglia thanks to a brace from Sharnie Boast, goals from Lisa Ferdani, Laura-Jane Tooke and three own goals. 

Hockering were 2-0 winners over Bulldogs FC thanks to goals from Summer Davies and Carrie-Ann Mileham. 

It was smiles all round for Bure Valley at the end of Sunday’s game, they continue to sit top of Tier Eight after their 6-0 win at Waveney. Credit – Shay Porter

A-League Women Awards: Round 15

Members of the Impetus team of contributors covering the competition unveil their choices of player, coach, and event of the week. We’ll keep a tally of all the votes and just before Finals, reveal which player and coach have received the most votes across the season to be named the Impetus A-League Women Player and Coach of the Season 8/2/24

Player of the week

Ben Carey

Cortnee Vine. Her performance against Perth Glory was extraordinary. Her two goals and one assist were instrumental in her team’s victory. It looks like shes back to her pre-injury best!

Kieran Yap

Sasha Grove was enormous against Melbourne City. From full back she dominated the game for Canberra United, stopped countless opposition attacks and helped seal the game with an amazing chase, steal and long pass forward.

Coach of the week

Ben Carey

Njegosh Popovich. He lead his bottom of the table team to a statement victory over the league leaders, breaking a three year, four match winless streak against Melbourne City. Amazing effort from Popovich and his team.

Kieran Yap

Adrian Stenta. Adelaide United have two wins from their last two games and look to be turning their season around. Stenta has not been afraid to adjust personnel and tactics mid game and the winning goal was scored by substitute Chrissy Panagaris. The moves that he is making are having an impact.

Moment of the week

Ben Carey

Sarina Bolden’s goal against Wellington Phoenix was amazing. She ran onto the ball in the box, away from goals, and then pivoted and found not only superb pace, but an even better angle to sneak it past the keeper. Wonderful strike from a great player.

Kieran Yap

It was hard this week. Indiana Dos Santos’s rainbow flick, Morgan Aquino’s penalty save and Michelle Heyman’s solo run and goal all come into contention.

I’m going to go with Brianna Edwards again this week. Her save against Sarina Bolden’s header was remarkable, athletic and spectacular.

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Kaitlyn Torpey, the “intriguing” player who broke a transfer record

By Emma Burke 7/2/24

Above: Kaitlyn Torpey (foreground) with Melbourne City’s Hannah Wilkinson. Image: Melbourne City.

Six months ago, Kaitlyn Torpey spent her off-season in the National Premier League in Victoria playing for the Preston Lions. 

Yesterday, it was announced that she would be joining the San Diego Wave on a two year deal, making the move from top of the A-League Women table Melbourne City for an outgoing transfer fee, rumoured to be around $75,000, that broke Australian records in women’s football. There she’ll play alongside the likes of fellow Matilda Emily van Egmond, and United States Superstars such as defender Naomi Girma and forward Alex Morgan.

Today, she’s a part of the Matildas squad, for the first time, that’s going to be taking on Uzbekistan in their final round of Olympic Qualification for the Paris Olympics later this year. 

But who is Kaitlyn Torpey?

Originally from Queensland and only 23 years old, Torpey spent the first five years of her professional career playing as a defender for Brisbane Roar. She racked up 43 appearances and scored one goal. 

In September 2021, Torpey made the move down the coast to Melbourne City where she made 43 appearances and scored eight goals. 

Torpey’s defensive style has an aggressive flair to it, she’s never one to shy away from a challenge and she can often be found charging into an attack, as well as working as a playmaker from out wide.

She has frequently been utilised as a wing-back under her former head coach Dario Vidosic during her time with Melbourne City. 

Her stint with Preston in the NPLW Victoria demonstrated that she also has the ability to be clinical in front of goal, scoring nine goals in nine games.

Off the pitch, Torpey does videography and photography where she has collaborated with Melbourne City, The Professional Footballers Australia, and more, producing interviews with her teammates and for the PFA.

It was revealed in the presser announcing the Matildas Qualifying squad that Torpey has been in head coach Tony Gustavsson’s sights for quite some time now. 

“We’ve kept an eye on her for a long time, her improvement of performances over the last year, especially after her last injury has been phenomenal,” said Gustavsson.

“We’re intrigued by her performances,” he continued.

Now all that’s left for Torpey is to carry on her missile-like trajectory from club to country.

The Dub’s Difference Makers: Kirsty Fenton

By Genevieve Henry (6/2/24).

Above: Kirsty Fenton (centre) celebrates last season’s success with her Sydney FC teammates. Image: Kris Goman for Impetus.

She’s been delivering some of the most phenomenal through-balls and assists in the A-League Women as of late. That, alongside her staunch defending, has made her one of the very best defenders in the league. And she’s only 20.

Kirsty Fenton has been shining in a somewhat lacklustre Sydney side. The left-back has been providing the creativity and forward momentum that feels lacking in an injury-ridden squad. Not only has she done this, but she has played a monumental role in keeping Sydney’s defence as the best in the league. 

Born and raised in the Newcastle area, Fenton grew up in sports. She played at the Newcastle Jets academy from the U-11 level, while attending a sports high school. She went on to play for various youth levels at the academy before signing her first contract in 2021 with the senior Jets side at 17. While still completing her HSC, she worked her way up into the Jets lineups, juggling the classroom and the field exceptionally well. However, her smarts didn’t just manifest in school; her vision and decision-making are what set her apart on the park.

Fenton has simply stunned in the A-League Women, especially since joining Sydney FC in the 2022-23 season. She fills the role of a modern fullback perfectly, with solid defensive abilities while still being adventurous on the attacking front. Many have even tipped her as the best left-back in Australia since Steph Catley. With Sydney, she plays consistently when unmarred by injury. Her role in last season’s Premiership and Championship winning season was pivotal, and if they achieve anything this season, it will be largely her impact that propels them there. While she has not yet been amongst the senior Matildas, Fenton has starred at the U-20 level. She started two out of three games in the 2022 U-20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica, even scoring a goal against the hosts.

Above: Kirsty Fenton (blue) in action against Canberra United. Image: Sydney FC.

As a fullback, her presence is frequently felt on the overlap, both her speed and technical skills bringing a deadly dynamism to the attack. Remarkably for a defender, she averages 1 attempt on goal per game, as well as creating at least 3 good chances per match. She often completes several take-ons per match, her dribbling and passing only improving as she matures. While she adds copious amounts of value to the attack, her real talent and composure is in defence. With 2.44 tackles, 3.03 interceptions, and 1.57 blocks on average per game, she ranks highly amongst other defenders around the world in top leagues. Another great strength for Fenton is her aerial ability, winning a whopping 95% of aerial duels. Strong in the air and on the ground, she expertly manoeuvres her body to retain possession and bring the ball back up the park. Fenton excels in defence and attack. 

Not only is Fenton fantastic as an individual, but she functions well as a part of the backline, and her communication with teammates is evident on the field. Handling marking complications and handoffs with ease, there isn’t often a player who gets away from her. She rotates with flexibility, providing backup for her teammates while still handling her own responsibilities. She is often trusted as the player to hang back on a set-piece to snuff a counter-attack, providing safety and reliability to Sydney. She uses her intelligence to assess where her presence is most needed and always does what is best for her team, whether it be sending an inch-perfect pass onto the foot of a teammate, or blocking a goal on the line. 

Sooner or later, she’ll be getting Matildas call-ups and offers from the biggest clubs. Kirsty Fenton isn’t just a talent for the future. She’s a talent for now. 

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‘She’s scoring for fun’-Heyman headlines Matildas squad to face Uzbekistan

By Emma Burke 7/2/24

Above : Michelle Heyman will return to the national team against Uzbekistan. Photo: Football Australia.

The Matildas squad that faces Uzbekistan in the third and final round of Olympic Qualifying for Paris 2024 includes the familiar faces of  Michelle Heyman and Chloe Logarzo, and marks a first senior call-up for Kaitlyn Torpey.

Head Coach Tony Gustavsson announced his 23-player deep roster last night to the media and spoke in a press conference about the choices he’s made in his inclusions and exclusions.

“We’re really happy to find the combination that we have of younger players, experienced players, players that have been with us before and are coming back and so forth,” said Gustavsson.

“We have to consider injury situations, with players unavailable, and look at how we can fill those spots, for example the 9 and 10 role,” he said regarding the loss of players such as Sam Kerr and Holly McNamara to ACL ruptures, and Lydia Williams requiring surgery on her ankle.

The selection of Michelle Heyman sees her return to the senior team five years after she announced her retirement from international football.

“Heyman has played herself into this team,” said Gustavsson, “it’s not about age in a Matilda, it’s about the quality you have as a footballer,” he continued.

Heyman, who is 35, recently became the first player to score 100 goals in the A-League Women’s, and currently leads the race for the Golden Boot, having scored 10 goals in 15 games for Canberra United. Internationally, Heyman has appeared 61 times for the Matildas, including at the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada, and the 2016 Rio Olympics, and scored 20 goals.

“She’s in tremendous form, she’s scoring for fun, and we feel playing these qualifiers against a very well organized Uzbekistan, it’s going to be difficult to get in behind and we need an in-and-out pure 9 in the box that needs half a chance to score, and that’s Michelle Heyman.”

This roster also sees the return of Chloe Logarzo to the international fold after having struggled in recent years with injuries and form.

“I’m really happy to bring Chloe back in. She knows the identity of the team, she knows the playing style, she’s going to integrate quickly into it,” said Gustavsson.

While she has recently been utilised as a number 9 for her club at Western United, where she has so far collected 5 goals and 2 assists this season, Logarzo is traditionally known for her tenacious work as a box-to-box midfielder, attributes that Gustavsson was quick to heap praise on.

“Her runs off the ball, her tackling, her 1v1, her defending and attacking, her scoring ability, her ability to get into the box, her runs in behind the backline, we need players that can get into the box and be first on the ball… she’s going to be there to poach every single ball if she gets on the park,” he said.

Internationally, Logarzo was a part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics squad, where the Matildas came home empty handed after losing 4-3 to the USA in the Bronze Medal match. She previously was awarded the Player of the Match in the Matildas game against Brazil at the Women’s World Cup in France in 2019, a game in which she scored to level the score and which is heralded by fans as ‘The Miracle of Montpellier.”

The only new addition to Gustavsson’s team is Kaitlyn Torpey, a versatile defender originally from Brisbane, who was recently announced as having signed with San Diego Wave in the NWSL for two years, a move that set a record outgoing transfer fee in Australia from Melbourne City. 


“We’ve kept an eye on her for a long time, her improvement of performances over the last year, especially after her last injury has been phenomenal,” Gustavsson said of the 23-year-old.

“She has a profile as a player that is intriguing for the way we play. She has the speed with technique, she can play the 7 or 11 for us out wide, she can play as an attacking outside back for us, she’s confident on the ball, she’s aggressive.” 

The remaining 20 places on this squad contain the usual suspects you would expect to see, however both Alex Chidiac and Courtney Nevin have been omitted this time around. 

The Olympics only allow for 18 players per country with a handful of reserve players who also travel with the team, meaning that there will be more cuts made should the Matildas qualify for Paris 2024. 

Despite this, Gustavsson has said that there are still opportunities for players who haven’t made this roster to book their ticket.

“Everyone that is selected for this camp, and those that missed out, are in contention for a position on the Olympic roster,” he said.


“The door is open, but it’s not wide open.”

The Matildas take on Uzbekistan in a two-leg series, the first played in Tashkent at the Milliy Stadium at 8pm AEST on the 24th of February, before travelling to Melbourne for the second game also at 8pm AEST on the 28th of February at Marvel Stadium.

SQUAD LIST

Mackenzie ARNOLD (GK)

Ellie CARPENTER

Steph CATLEY 

Kyra COONEY-CROSS

Caitlin FOORD

Mary FOWLER

Katrina GORRY

Charlotte GRANT

Michelle HEYMAN

Clare HUNT

Alanna KENNEDY

Chloe LOGARZO

Aivi LUIK

Teagan MICAH (GK)

Clare POLKINGHORNE

Hayley RASO

Amy SAYER

Kaitlyn TORPEY

Emily VAN EGMOND

Cortnee VINE

Clare WHEELER

Jada WHYMAN (GK)

Tameka YALLOP

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UEFA Women’s Champions League Unsung Heroes

By Faith Emmanuel

The group stage of the UWCL was laced with actions, momentous displays, and lasting memories. From having the first Dutch team in the quarter-finals, to the shock of having no German team in the quarter-finals for the first time, it was a story of the heroes, unsung heroes and the under-dogs.

While many are looking forward to the quarter-finals after the draw today I wanted to reflect on the group stages just gone. While Ada Hegerberg who extended her tally as the competition’s highest goal-scorer, Salma Paralluelo who has been a discovery with five goals in six matches and others might steal the spotlight, there are a lot of unsung heroes who deserve all the celebration. This article seeks to shine a light on these superstars.

Jessica Silva: When you are in the same group as Barcelona, your qualification chances are almost reduced by 50%. While football is not mathematics, it is almost certain Barcelona will qualify so you have to put up a fight to pick up the second slot, that’s what Benfica did and Jessica Silva was the metronome orchestrating the team’s strides.

From assisting the goal that ensured they picked up maximum points at home to Rosengard to scoring an away goal that ensured they shared the spoils away at Frankfurt, the Portuguese attacker was the conductor directing Benfica’s attack.

Silva and her Benfica teammates will not be daunted by the prospect of facing Olympique Lyonnais, if anything, they will relish it.

She saved her best performance for the last dance as her team almost recorded a monumental win against the reigning champions Barcelona. Silva set up her striker, Marie-Yasmin Alidou for the first goal, before scoring a beautiful third goal from a counter-attacking move she started.

Making it out of the group stage is already a record and if there is more magic to watch out from Benfica this season, you can be guaranteed Silva’s seat at the heart of the team, spinning attacking tricks.

Lily Yohannes: She was termed the “discovery of the season” and delivered five-star performances throughout all the group stage matches. The Ajax youngster is definitely the revelation of the tournament. The whizz who made her UWCL Group stage debut at 16 years and 156 days, and recorded her first assist at 16 years and 183 days old already holds the record for the youngest player in the UWCL group stage. Keeping her heads up against midfield maestros like Grace Geyoro and Georgia Stanway is a pointer to how brilliant Yohannes was during the group stage.

From her ball-carrying abilities to creating pivotal assists (against Bayern and Roma in Gameweek 3 and 6 respectively), to her interceptions and thwarts to opponents’ attacking moves, she is one of the many heroes of this spectacular Ajax team.

Above: Lily Yohannes Photo: @UWCL

Erin Cuthbert: Sam Kerr was the star, the sharpened attacking head hitting the nail for Emma Hayes’ team, scoring five goals in the first four matches, until the ACL knocked.

A lot of players have stepped up in her absence and Erin Cuthbert is one of them. Even before Kerr’s departure, Cuthbert was crucial to that victory over BK Hacken that ensured Chelsea topped the group since match day one.

Beyond the brace she scored, as Emma Hayes said in the post-match interview, Cuthbert was everywhere on the field, making something happen and the goals were just a bonus to her outstanding performance. She repeated the same performance against Real Madrid in game week five, ensuring Chelsea qualified at the top spot.

Chiamaka Nnadozie: While the burgeoning French side, Paris FC didn’t make it out of the group, their UWCL run has been astoundingly inspiring and the Nigeria shot-stopper was a significant part of this sturdy run. From saving crucial penalties during the qualifying rounds to saving two penalties against Real Madrid and Hacken, ensuring her team picked up points in both matches, the goal-keeper has made a good account of herself, and if Paris FC is going to make a comeback to Europe’s grand-stage next season, she would be a very important part of the journey.

Manuela Guigliano: Four goals and four assists in six matches tells you all you need to know about the Italian midfielder. Roma will believe they experienced a rotten draw being in the same group with teams like Bayern and PSG while conceding two late goals at the death in two different matches, they made a great account of themselves, and Guiglano was a conductor co-ordinating Roma’s orchestra of free-flowing football.

Combined with Valentina Giacinti (another player worth spotlighting), the midfielder virtuoso was everywhere dictating the Roma’s play. Her best performance was probably against Bayern Munich where she created an assist for her team-mate in the 58th minute before completing the comeback in the 90th minute to ensure the spoils were shared despite being 2:0 down at the end of the first half. The Italians can be proud of their display and hopefully come back together.

Caroline Graham Hansen: Barcelona scored 27 goals in the group stage and the Norwegian winger was involved in one-third of them. This depicts how productive and clinical Graham Hansen is. Often overlooked because of the presence of players like Alexia Puttelas and Aitana Bonmati, the number 10 was a continuous contributor to Barcelona’s attack, creating magic out of almost nothing, and spinning impossible goals and unexpected strikes in almost every match.

Did you watch her assist for Salma Paralluelo in their match against Rosengård and her lethal strike against Frankfurt in the match after? With four goals and five assists in six matches, if Barcelona aims to retain their trophy, then the spotlight needs to shine more on the ferocious winger.

Rosa Kafaji: To have three goals and one assists in six matches against a former European finalist, a Spanish powerhouse and a club who had knocked out two semi-finalists is a worthy mention. Winning the player of the match in her first two stats is a testament to her scintillating skillsets.

Above: Rosa Kafaji in action against Real Madrid. Photo: @RosaKafaji IG

Beyond her goals, the 20-year-old Swedish was an incessant threat to her opponents with or without the ball. Her tricky unpredictable movement when she is with the ball and her persistent hassling when she isn’t without the ball makes her the perfect European midfielder any manager would love to work with. BK Hacken made it out of one of the groups of death and while the Quarter-finals is already a major monument, if they would go further than that, then Kafaji must be at 100% delivering her best for the team.

There are a lot of other worthy mentions like Valentina Giacinti and Marie-Yasmin Alidou who scored four important goals for their respective clubs, Roma and Benfica, Lucy Bronze who scored a vital goal and created four assists in six games, Christy Uchiebe who was crucial to Benfica’s defence especially against Barcelona at home and against Eintracht Frankfurt, Justine Kvaleng Kielland who stood out for Brann, ensuring they navigate a challenging route to the quarter-finals and all these names deserves to be appreciated for showing up when their team needed them most, where their teams needed them most.

Which of these heroes are you backing to shine in the quarter-finals? Do leave a comment below.

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ParaMatildas: The road to the World Cup starts this week!

from Ben Gilby (6/2/24)

Above: The ParaMatildas celebrate with the IFCPF Asia-Oceania Women’s Cup in November last year. They reconvene for the first time since later this week. Photo: Football Australia.

After winning the inaugural IFCPF Asia-Oceania Women’s Championships towards the end of 2023 to add to their World Cup Final appearance the previous year, the ParaMatildas will reconvene for a training camp from Friday to Sunday this week.

The camp, held at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra will consist of 14 players building towards going one better at this November’s IFCPF Women’s World Cup which will take place in Spain,.

The world number one ranked ParaMatildas have a sensational record since they were formed ahead of the 2022 IFCPF Women’s World Cup – a tournament that saw them eventually defeated after extra-time in the Final by the USA.

They followed that up by lifting the Para Asian Cup in Melbourne with a 2-0 win over Japan in the final thanks to goals from Nicole Christodoulou and Georgia Biekoff.

Nine members of that squad have been called up again for this week’s training camp with the addition of returning World Cup heroes Lainee Harrison and Charlize Tran.

A new arrival into the ParaMatildas arena is 16-year-old Queenslander Trinity McPhie who put in a series of impressive performances at the National Para Football Championships in Perth last year.

Head Coach Kelly Stirton emphasised how vital this week’s camp is saying: “(It) is an important part of our development and growth heading into an important 2024. To be successful at the World Cup in Spain, the preparation needs to start now.

“Last year was hugely successful year for the CommBank ParaMatildas program, winning the Para Asian Cup and becoming the number one ranked team in the world. The coaching staff and players are now focused on writing the next chapter in our relatively short history and moving to even greater heights.

“I am looking forward to seeing how the players return to the national team environment, whilst welcoming some fresh and established faces to the squad. We have a strong combination of experience and youth traveling to Canberra for the camp as we focus on building team chemistry and cohesion ahead of the World Cup in Spain later this year.”

PARAMATILDAS SQUAD FOR FEBRUARY TRAINING CAMP

FIRST NAMESURNAMEPOSITION
GeorgiaBeikoffMidfielder
TahliaBlanshardDefender
NicoleChristodoulouForward
TamsinColleyDefender
AnnmarieDe UriarteForward
AliGreenDefender
KarinaGrigorianDefender
LaineeHarrisonForward
RebeccaJonesMidfield
TrinityMcPhieNEW
EloiseNorthamMidfield
CarlySalmonGoalkeeper
KatelynSmithGoalkeeper
CharlizeTranForward

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A Journey through Chelsea Women’s History

By Ruby Vince 6/2/24

Above: Chelsea lift another trophy. Photo: Andy Wicks

In 1992, Chelsea Ladies Football Club emerged as a testament to the fervent desire of Chelsea FC supporters to see the club’s representation in women’s football. The subsequent years have witnessed a remarkable journey, characterized by overcoming challenges, strategic transformations, and achieving unprecedented success. From its grassroots inception to becoming a powerhouse in domestic and international competitions, the story of Chelsea FC Women unfolds as a captivating narrative of perseverance and triumph.

Chelsea Ladies Football Club was officially founded in 1992, catalyzed by the passionate vision of Chelsea FC fans who sought to establish a presence in women’s football. The journey to prominence, however, was not without its challenges. In 2004, the club underwent a significant transformation when it merged with Chelsea’s ‘Football in the Community’ department. Despite initial teething issues, the team weathered the storm, securing their place in the top-flight football, the FA Premier League National Division.

In the early years, Chelsea Ladies competed in regional leagues before making their way to the national stage. The team gradually climbed through the ranks and earned promotions, showcasing their commitment and talent. The turning point came in the 2004-2005 season when Chelsea Ladies won the FA Women’s Premier League Southern Division, earning promotion to the National Division.

In 2008, under the guidance of manager Steve Jones, Chelsea Women made strategic signings, bringing in talents like Siobhan Chamberlain, Casey Stoney, and Eniola Aluko. Financial difficulties loomed large, but crucial assistance from figures like John Terry helped stabilize the club during testing times.

Chelsea made history by winning the Women’s FA Cup for the first time, defeating Arsenal in the final. This victory marked a significant milestone and signalled Chelsea’s emergence as a force to be reckoned with in women’s football. The club continued to invest in its women’s team, both in terms of infrastructure and player acquisitions.

In 2011, a pivotal moment arrived as Chelsea FC Women were granted permission to compete in the inaugural Women’s Super League (WSL). In the initial years of Chelsea Women’s presence in the WSL, the team quickly established itself as a formidable force in English women’s football. Following their promotion to the top flight, Chelsea showcased a blend of talent, determination, and strategic leadership under manager Emma Hayes. The early seasons witnessed the team’s rapid progression, marked by notable victories and consistent performances. Chelsea’s investment in top-tier players, combined with Hayes’ tactical acumen, propelled them into contention for league titles and domestic honours. The evolution of key players, such as Fran Kirby and Ji So-yun, contributed significantly to the team’s success. Chelsea Women laid the foundation for a period of sustained excellence, setting the stage for their subsequent dominance in the Women’s Super League.

The 2014-2015 season saw another vital moment in their history as Chelsea secured the Women’s Super League (WSL) title for the first time, under the management of Emma Hayes. This success marked a new era for the club, establishing them as one of the top teams in English women’s football. The FA Cup was secured in a memorable triumph at Wembley Stadium, showcasing the team’s growing prowess and resilience.

Chelsea F moved to Kingsmeadow, a stadium located in Kingston upon Thames, at the beginning of the 2017-2018 season. Kingsmeadow, with its modern facilities and improved capacity, provided Chelsea FC Women and the Academy teams with a more suitable and dedicated venue for their home matches, marking a significant step in the club’s commitment to the development and growth of women’s football. Since the move, Chelsea have continuously seen large attendances for their matches. 

The subsequent seasons saw Chelsea FC Women maintain their dominance, consistently clinching titles in the WSL, FA Cup, and Continental Cup. Notable victories included a Continental Cup triumph in 2019, where Bethany England’s brace secured a 2-1 victory, further solidifying the club’s standing among the football elite.

Last season was a rollercoaster of emotions, ultimately culminating in a triumphant fourth consecutive Women’s Super League title. Despite a rocky start with an unexpected defeat against Liverpool on the opening day, Emma Hayes’ side showcased resilience and determination. A series of outstanding performances, including a resounding 3-0 win over Tottenham and a massive 8-0 win against Leicester propelled Chelsea to the top of the table. Notable moments, such as Sam Kerr’s late equalizer against Arsenal and her incredible goal in the top-of-the-table clash with Manchester United, demonstrated the team’s character. A setback against Manchester City was swiftly overcome with a commanding 3-0 victory over Aston Villa, showcasing Chelsea’s ability to bounce back. The emotional farewell of captain Magdalena Eriksson and Pernille Harder, marked by a 2-0 victory over Arsenal, added sentiment to the final home game. Chelsea clinched the trophy on the last day with a 3-0 win against Reading, solidifying their dominance in women’s football and leaving fans in awe of a season filled with unforgettable moments.

As the end of the season approaches, Chelsea FC Women’s team faces the inevitable departure of their remarkable manager, Emma Hayes, leaving a void that will undoubtedly be felt by the passionate Chelsea fans. Hayes, a true icon in the world of women’s football, has not only led the team to numerous successes but has also become a beloved figure for her charisma, tactical brilliance, and unwavering commitment. Chelsea fans will miss her dynamic presence on the sidelines, her ability to inspire players, and the sense of unity she fostered within the squad. Hayes’ departure marks the end of an era for Chelsea Women, and the supporters will fondly reminisce about the glory days under her guidance. The impact she has had on the team and the broader women’s football community is immeasurable, and her legacy will undoubtedly endure, echoing through the cheers and memories of the devoted Chelsea faithful.

The journey of Chelsea FC Women is a saga of determination, evolution, and triumph. From modest beginnings to standing tall among the football elite, the club’s unwavering commitment to women’s football has left an enduring legacy. As they continue to pursue glory, Chelsea FC Women remain a symbol of resilience and success in the ever-evolving landscape of women’s football. The chapters of their storied history continue to be written, promising more moments of triumph and inspiration for generations to come.

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The view from France

Jean-Pierre Thiesset résume la 14ème journée de D1 Arkema. 6/2/24

Ci-dessus : Les OL ANG’ELLES, Fan club des féminines de Lyon, célébrant le 300ème but d’Eugénie Le Sommer. Photo : Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

Fleury 1–1 Paris Saint-Germain

Après une grosse occasion pour chaque équipe, à la fin du premier quart d’heure pour le Paris SG et 5 minutes plus tard pour Fleury, c’est Fleury qui ouvre le score par Dominica Grabowska à la 19ème minute de jeu sur un contre rondement mené par Rosemonde Kouassi qui termine son action par un superbe centre.

Paris SG accélère après le but de Fleury et se créé rapidement une grosse occasion détournée par Chloé N’Gazi, gardienne de Fleury. A la 28ème minute de jeu, Chloé N’Gazi fait un nouvel arrêt devant Marie-Antoinette Katoto qui empêche Paris SG d’égaliser.

Paris SG continue à dominer largement mais Chloé N’Gazi fait un grand match et fait 2 autres sauvetages en première mi-temps.

Paris SG fait rentrer deux de ses habituelles titulaires à la mi-temps pour essayer de renverser le match : Sakina Karchaoui et Tabitha Chawinga remplacent respectivement, Korbin Albert et Laurina Fazer. De son côté Fleury renforce sa défense en faisant rentrer Assimina Maoulida à la place de Batcheba Louis.

A l’heure de jeu Paris SG concrétise enfin sa domination avec un tir de Sakina Karchaoui de 20 mètres qui trompe la gardienne de Fleury.Paris SG continue d’appuyer fort et se créé des occasions.

A 5 minutes de la fin Chloé N’Gazi, qui réalise un gros match, fait un nouveau sauvetage sur un tir de Ramona Bachmann. Puis 3 minutes plus tard elle détourne de nouveau un ballon de Tabitha Chawinga.

Un résultat nul qui ne satisfait aucune des deux équipes même si Fleury peut quand même remercier sa gardienne qui leur a permis de garder le 1-1 malgré les nombreuses occasions du Paris SG.

Buteuses : Fleury : Grabowska (19’). Paris SG : Karchaoui (61’).

Le Havre 4–2 Saint-Etienne

Un beau match et une belle victoire pour Le Havre contre Saint-Etienne, un concurrent direct pour le maintien. Avec cette victoire Le Havre repasse devant Saint-Etienne avec 2 points d’avance.

Ci-dessus : Inès Benyahia, Le Havre. Photo : Le Havre site web.

Inès Benyahia, Le Havre, prêtée par l’Olympique Lyonnais, réalise une nouvelle fois un gros match avec 1 but et 2 passes décisives.

A noter aussi la bonne performance de Katriina Talaslahti, gardienne de Le Havre, qui fait 2 sauvetages évitant à Saint-Etienne de revenir au score avant la fin de la première mi-temps.

Buteuses : Le Havre : Benyahia (18’), Demeyere (27’), Nadjim (53’), Gavory (73’). Saint-Etienne : Pierre-Louis (62’), Lamontagne (90’+2).

Bordeaux 1–1 Guingamp

Mauvaise opération pour Bordeaux qui concède le nul à la maison contre Guingamp qui se bat pour sortir de la zone dangereuse en bas du classement.

Buteuses : Bordeaux : Bourgouin (36’). Guingamp : Starova (8’).

Olympique Lyonnais 4–1 Reims

Un match sérieux et abouti pour l’Olympique Lyonnais qui n’a pas vraiment laissé de chance à Reims qui a pourtant essayé de jouer.

Il n’aura fallu qu’à peine 20 minutes pour que Lyon plie le match avec 2 buts d’Eugénie Le Sommer. Avec ces 2 buts, Eugénie Le Sommer, 34 ans, marque son 299ème et 300ème buts avec Lyon.

Ci-dessus : Eugénie Le Sommer, Lyon, en action. Photo : Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus71.

Après la demi-heure de jeu, c’est Sara Däbritz qui sécurise la victoire la victoire de Lyon avec un 3ème but.

Sur un contre juste à la fin de la première mi-temps, les joueuses de Reims sont récompensées de leurs efforts et réduisent légèrement le score. Malgré cette défaite, Reims reste 4ème au classement.

Buteuses : Lyon : Le Sommer (13’, 18’), Däbritz (34’), Hegerberg (49’). Reims : Chossenotte (45’).

Dijon 1-0 Montpellier

Dijon s’éloigne de la zone rouge en surprenant Montpellier dès la 2ème minute de jeu. Montpellier fait une très mauvaise opération et laisse de ce fait la 4ème place au classement à Reims.

Buteuse : Dijon : Jedlinska (2’).

Paris FC 3–2 Lille

Le match commence par une grosse occasion par Julie Rabanne pour Lille détournée en corner après 3 minutes de jeu. A la 11ème minute c’est le Paris FC qui a une belle occasion par Matilde Bourdieu mais Elisa Launay lui prend le ballon dans les pieds.

Malgré une domination importante, le Paris FC n’a pas pu ouvrir le score en première mi-temps à cause, comme trop souvent, de trop d’imprécisions et d’efficacité en attaque et une très bonne performance d’Elisa Launay, gardienne de Lille.

Le Paris FC recommence la deuxième mi-temps en dominant de nouveau mais toujours de façon stérile et c’est Lille qui ouvre le score à la 65èmeminute sur leur deuxième tir cadré.

Le Paris FC trouve enfin le chemin des filets à la 70ème minute de jeu avec un but un peu « gag » mais qui leur permet d’égaliser. La joie des Parisiennes est de courte durée car Lille reprend les devants une minute plus tard par Lorena Lazzaro qui venait de rentrer en jeu.

Sur une belle tête de Kessya Bussy sur un coup franc de Gaëtane Thiney, le Paris FC égalise de nouveau.

Le Paris FC s’octroie la victoire à 30 secondes de la fin du match.

Buteuses : Paris FC : Korosec (70’, 90’+6), Bussy (76’). Lille : Ribeyra (65’), Azzaro (71’)..